50th party blog guest - Jennifer Taylor

I first met Jennifer Taylor when I was a wet-behind-the-ears newbie M&B Meds author, and she was immensely kind and sweet to me (especially as I was a bit overawed, meeting someone whose books I’d read and loved). We don’t get to see each other that often, but when we do it’s as if we last saw each other the previous day. And we can talk and talk and talk :o)

So, over to Jennifer:

CELEBRATIONS.

I am delighted to be here, helping the lovely Kate Hardy celebrate the publication of her 50th title for Harlequin Mills & Boon. Not only is Kate one of the nicest people I’ve ever met, but she writes wonderful books, too. I’m sure her 50th is going to fly right off the shelves - I have already reserved my copy!

Now I have a confession to make at this point; I love celebrations and here in the U.K. we have been doing a lot of celebrating recently because we are hosting the 2012 Olympics. It’s the bit I enjoy best, that moment when the medal winners step up onto the podium and receive the acclaim they deserve. Obviously, it’s great if it’s a member of Team GB who has won a medal but I have to say that I derive as much enjoyment from watching competitors from other countries celebrate their success. There’s tears, laughter, relief - the whole gamut of emotions. I have to admit that I’ve shed a tear or two along with them!

Celebrations mark milestones in people’s lives. A wedding, a christening, a birthday or anniversary are all good reasons to celebrate with those closest to us. When I look back on the events I have celebrated, it always makes me smile and feel uplifted. My birthday when, unbeknown to me, my husband arranged for everyone to be served Champagne at a black-tie dinner we attended. Fabulous!

My daughter’s wedding, held in Thailand, was another wonderful occasion. (That's me, second from left.)

Then there was the cruise Bill and I took to celebrate our thirtieth wedding anniversary. We renewed our vows on board the ship, standing side by side under a tropical moon. It’s a memory I shall always cherish.

So today as I help Kate celebrate this milestone in her career, I have the perfect excuse to remember all the wonderful things that have happened in my life.
Jennifer Taylor.

Have you celebrated an occasion that was particularly dear to you? I’d love to hear your stories. There’s a signed copy of Gina’s Little Secret for the person who makes me smile (or cry!) the most.